2 week pathway

Hi everyone, 

I am 53 and perimenopausal. I haven't had a period for 18 months.

I had a smear on 14 Feb - the nurse found a lump (7mm) and asked if I had ectropion before, so I was bleeding. I said not that I was aware. She looked really concerned and was 'there' ages. Then she said she needed to get a GP to a 'have a look' and examine me. The GP also looked concerned and put me on the 2 week pathway. On my NHS App the notes say 'presentation-appearance of cervix consistent with cancer'. I'm guessing they put this on fast track referrals. In my notes cervical cancer is mentioned 9 times - it's terrifying.

Apart from the usual twinge's, feeling really tired (don't all women) and a UTC in Sept I haven't had other symptoms. 

On the 20th Feb I messaged the doctors to say I haven't heard anything yet. The GP called me 15mins later to say she'd been off sick so the referral would go in straight away (20th Feb, almost a week after my smear).

I had pre-cancerous cells removed 30 years ago. I had a vaginal scan last year and the lump wasn't there then. Looking at my records, it looks like I haven't had a smear for 8 years, don't know why as I always go but it's not something I track, I expect the NHS to track it.

I called the doctors to ask why they hadn't backdated the referral or told them about their mistake. They said they couldn't change and to call the hospital. I called them on the 21st Feb and explained my referral was delayed and should be dated 14th Feb. They said there is nothing I can do and that I'm 31st on the list to contact. 

It's the 25th today and I still haven't heard anything. No appointment, no smear results.

I messaged the doctors again today and got a text reply saying you will be seen by gynaecology soon.

I'm worried sick, can't sleep, I've developed a stye and a cold sore this weekend I'm so run down.

Has anyone else got a similar story about the lump and having previous precancerous cells?

Many thanks

  • Welcome to the forum ExecKate although I'm sorry to hear about the delays with your referral.

    This must be very frustrating but hopefully it won't be much longer now until they contact you.

    So many of our members know how stressful and worrying this time can be, so you are not alone ExecKate, and hopefully you will receive some support and advice from them soon.

    If you'd like to talk things through with one of our cancer nurses, they're available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m. They're very insightful and will do all they can to support you and put your mind at ease whilst you wait.

    We're thinking of you ExecKate and hope all goes well with your appointment when the time comes.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator